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Jay Johnson--more Info About Va Respite Care Benefit
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Guest Morgan
Jay,
I found out more about respite care through the VA. The program is for the caregivers of "chronically ill veterans."
First, the director of the program contacted me and gave me a list of contracted home health agencies.
I talked to some of the people from each one and decided which one better suited us. (Of course, background checks of their employees are most important.) They will assist with daily living needs as a home health aide or homemaker. So light housekeeping is part of the program, if needed.
I got a letter today telling me respite care is set up for 30 days per year, which can be inpatient (7 days at a time) or three-hour visits at home (each three-hour visit counts as 1 "day.") The home health agency said we can pay for longer visits if we need them. Now I have to get over an emotional tie to being the "only" one I trust to stay with him. I know I need a break, and you know what? A new face would probably do him good. I'd say he could use a break from me too. :)
Here's what the pamphlet says:
Respite Care
Respite care temporarily relieves the spouse or other caregiver from the burden of caring for a chronically ill or disabled veteran at home. In the past, respite care admission was limited to an institutional setting, typically a VA nursing home. The Veterans Millennium Health Care and Benefits Act expanded respite care to home and other community settings, and home respite care was provided at 15 VA medical centers in fiscal year 2003. Currently, respite care programs are operating in 136 VA medical centers, with each program typically providing care to approximately five veterans on any given day. Respite care is usually limited to 30 days per year.
Who is Eligible?
Any enrolled veteran who is "qualifed by VA standards" [i don't know what this means] and meets the following criteria:
1. Has been living in a home setting for at least 3 months prior to the Respite Program Admission.
2. Receives assistance from an unpaid caregiver (family member or friend) on a daily basis.
3. Has a VA Primary Care team providing ongoing medical.
4. Does not require hospitalization.
Note: The program may be unable to provide for veterans known to be assaultive. Each veteran will be considered case by case.
The In-patient option could require a co-pay.
In-home care is provided by a homemaker or home health aide, depending on need.
Hope this helps.
Carrie
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